Varicose veins are more common than many people realize. Whether they appear suddenly or develop gradually, they can lead to discomfort, heaviness, and cosmetic concerns. Fortunately, modern treatments allow them to be managed quickly, effectively, and safely.
Here’s what you need to know to better understand their causes, symptoms, and the available treatment options.
What is a varicose vein?
A varicose vein is an abnormal dilation of a vein, typically caused by a loss of vein wall tone or impaired blood flow (venous reflux).
When blood does not circulate properly back to the heart, it can pool in the vein, causing it to become enlarged and visible beneath the skin.
Varicose veins can appear:
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at any age
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on different parts of the body
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but are especially common on the legs
Some milder conditions, such as couperose (which affects the cheeks, nose, and chin), are also related to the dilation of small capillary blood vessels.
Why do varicose veins develop?
Many factors influence their appearance.
The primary cause? Genetics.
- 20% risk if neither parent is affected
- 44% if one parent is affected
- more than 70% if both parents are affected
Other contributing factors include:
- ethnic background
- age (prevalence increases over time)
- sex (women are twice as likely to be affected)
- prolonged standing or sitting
- excess weight
- hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause…)
How are varicose veins treated?
Several treatment options are available, depending on the cause, location, and size of the affected vein.
An evaluation by a physician trained in phlebology is essential to establish an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
Sclerotherapy: The most common treatment
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a sclerosing solution into the affected vein, triggering a controlled inflammatory response.
The vein closes, stops carrying blood, and gradually fades.
Benefits:
- quick treatment (about 20 minutes)
- no anesthesia required
- immediate return to normal activities
- cost-effective solution
- progressive visible results
This treatment is designed for deeper veins or areas with significant reflux.
A prior ultrasound allows the physician to assess the venous network and precisely target the treatment area.
A more concentrated solution is often used to effectively treat larger veins.
Sclerotherapy and echosclerotherapy account for approximately 90% of varicose vein treatments, both available at Epiderma.
Compression Stockings: An Essential Ally
Wearing compression stockings:
- helps prevent new varicose veins
- slows the progression of venous disease
- optimizes treatment outcomes
- improves circulation through graduated pressure
They are available in various compression levels.
Proper selection (compression level and size) should always be guided by a healthcare professional.
This service is offered at several Epiderma clinics.
Tips to Slow Varicose Vein Development
- engage in circulation-friendly activities (walking, cycling, swimming, yoga)
- wear comfortable footwear
- maintain a healthy weight
- elevate legs when resting
- avoid hot baths, hot wax, and tight clothing
- massage legs upward toward venous return
Why Treat Varicose Veins Early?
Beyond cosmetic concerns, varicose veins tend to worsen over time.
If left untreated, they may lead to:
- increased heaviness
- pain
- more visible veins
- long-term vascular complications
Earlier treatment typically leads to better results and simpler interventions.
Conclusion: Effective and Safe Solutions
Before any treatment, a comprehensive evaluation by a phlebology physician is essential.
During your first visit at Epiderma:
- a medical history is completed
- the lower limbs are examined
- Doppler or ultrasound imaging assesses circulation and reflux
Thanks to modern techniques such as sclerotherapy and ultrasound-guided injections, varicose veins can be treated quickly, effectively, and safely.
Visible improvements are achievable even for more pronounced veins.
Today, saying goodbye to varicose veins is both possible — and simple.
Book your personalized evaluation with our phlebology physicians and discover the treatment options best suited to your needs.